- Replacement water pump
- New gasket (included with the water pump)
- Bolts and nuts (if necessary)
- Flat head screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Socket set
- Allen wrench set
- Coolant
- Distilled water
- Funnel
- Jack
- Jack stands
Procedure:
Disclaimer: Before beginning any work on your vehicle, ensure you have read and understood the safety precautions outlined in your vehicle's service manual.
Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle
- Allow the engine to cool down if it has been running.
- Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
- Lift the front of the vehicle with the jack and secure it with jack stands.
Step 2: Drain the Coolant
- Locate the radiator drain plug, usually near the bottom of the radiator.
- Place a drain pan under the drain plug and open it using a flathead screwdriver or adjustable wrench.
- Allow the coolant to drain completely.
Step 3: Remove the Accessory Drive Belt
- Locate the accessory drive belt that runs over the water pump pulley.
- Using the appropriate size wrench, loosen the tensioner pulley and remove the accessory belt.
- Set aside the accessory belt for later reinstallation.
Step 4: Remove the Old Water Pump
- Locate the bolts and/or nuts that secure the water pump to the engine block.
- Use the appropriate size wrench and socket to loosen and remove these bolts or nuts.
- Gently pry the water pump off the engine block, taking care not to spill any remaining coolant.
Step 5: Clean the Mounting Surface
- Clean the mounting surface of the engine block where the water pump was attached, removing any old gasket material.
- Make sure the surface is clean and free from any debris.
Step 6: Install the New Gasket and Water Pump
- Place the new gasket onto the mounting surface of the engine block.
- Position the new water pump over the gasket and align the mounting holes.
- Secure the water pump with the bolts and/or nuts that were removed earlier.
- Tighten the bolts or nuts to the specified torque as indicated in your vehicle's service manual.
Step 7: Reinstall the Accessory Drive Belt
- Refer to the steps performed in Step 3 to reinstall the accessory drive belt.
- Ensure that the belt is properly tensioned according to your vehicle's specifications.
Step 8: Refill the Coolant
- Locate the coolant reservoir or expansion tank.
- Using a funnel, pour a 50/50 mixture of coolant and distilled water into the reservoir.
- Refill the reservoir until it reaches the "full" or "max" level.
Step 9: Check for Leaks
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Look under the vehicle for any leaks from the water pump area.
- If you see any leaks, tighten the bolts or nuts that secure the water pump further.
Step 10: Test Drive
- Take the vehicle for a short test drive and ensure that the temperature gauge remains within the normal operating range.
- Check for any signs of leaks or unusual noises.
Step 11: Reconnect Battery
- Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
Step 12: Clean Up
- Clean up any spilled coolant and replace any removed components, such as the jack and jack stands.
Step 13: Dispose of Old Fluids and Materials
- Dispose of the drained coolant and old water pump appropriately, following local regulations.
By following these steps and referencing your vehicle's specific service manual, you can successfully replace the water pump on a 1995 Nissan Sentra.
